Haridwar all decked up for Kumbh mela from tomorrow

The otherwise calm and quiet city is abuzz with activities as lakhs of devotees, sadhus and tourists have converged here for the Kumbh mela beginning tomorrow.

Over 25 lakh people are expected to take a 'snan' (bath) in the Ganga tomorrow on the occasion of 'MakarSankranti' -- known as Uttarayan in other parts of the country -- the day when the sun starts to move northwards marking the decline of winter.

Eight lakh people have already reached the city, officials said.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank said all steps have been taken to ensure incident-free fair.

"Heavy security has been put in place for smooth conduct of the Mahakumbh," Nishank told PTI.

"All arrangements have been made. Security forces have been deployed at 130 sq km area to ensure that no untowardincident occurs," Kumbh mela in-charge Anand Vardhan said.

From fresh tarred and pothole-free roads to banners welcoming the devotees, the city springs with clean and tidylook ahead of the Kumbh, considered one of the largest religious gathering in the world.

Gone are the illegal constructions along the roads or the overflowing sewage, the city has painted itself into anew colour. The state government has pressed in the entire administration for smooth functioning of the Kumbh and hasset up extensive camps to facilitate lodging of the devotees.